Emperor Emeritus Akihito celebrated his 92nd birthday on December 23.

According to the Imperial Household Agency, the Emperor Emeritus, was hospitalized twice this year in May and July for cardiac examinations. 

He was diagnosed with asymptomatic myocardial ischemia as well as supraventricular arrhythmia and is being treated with medication.

His symptoms are being maintained in a relatively stable condition.

This year, Emperor Emeritus Akihito and Empress Emerita Michiko observed moments of silence on the anniversaries of the atomic bombing and the end of WWII, as they do every year.

During the summer, while recuperating in Karuizawa, the Emperor Emeritus visited the Ohinata settlement and reflected on the history of Manchuria and Mongolia development, frequently confronting the realities of the previous war.

The Emperor Emeritus continues his research on the classification of goby fish at the Imperial Biological Research Institute within the Imperial Palace three days a week.

Also this year, the Emperor Emeritus received requests for a reunion from close friends visiting Japan for the Osaka-Kansai Expo, including King Gustaf of Sweden and Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg, and held cordial talks with them at the Sento Imperial Residence.

His Majesty is scheduled to attend a celebratory event at the Sento Palace on December 23.